Mabel describes the Glen Eden chemist shop owned by her husband Ernest. She mentions processing photographic film and testing wine for vintners. Mabel describes the Glen Eden area c1930, mentions Parbhu Patel, Mt Pleasant Road, and doctors Dr Rhoda Robb, Dr Crew, and Dr Koplovitz. She recalls the work of the Home Guard, and describes how a Japanese aeroplane come over the Waitakere Ranges. She describes the family shelter and details the Home Guard's preparation for a possible invasion in Piha. Mabel mentions the American troops. She lists the names of Glen Eden shop owners during the Depression, and describes the shopping centre and the Glen Eden Town Hall. Mabel mentions 'Social Credit' Douglas; trips to Piha and early surfing; fishing; social gatherings on Piha beach; family life in Glen Eden in the 1940s; the local midwife and 'Twilight Sleep'; and, the Fire Brigade Ball.

Mabel and her husband Ernest moved to Glen Eden in 1930. Ernest opened a chemist shop and in 1950, Mabel opened a stationers shop, setting up a library. They were active in the Glen Eden community. Mabel was involved in the Plunket Society and the local Kindergarten.